Renting in France is not very easy even for the French because the laws are very supportive of the renter’s rights, causing the property owners to be super-picky about to whom they rent. An American with no familial ties in France, and without a French work contract, can find it very difficult to even be shown an available rental, much less to be able to rent it.
I got truly lucky on two counts. First, I walked into the office of a realtor who happened to speak perfect English. This was critical as my French is still “trés limité!”
Second, I had heard about, and applied for a service called Garantme. I am paying an extra 3% or so on the rental fee for Garantme to promise to cover my rent should I not pay it. (Think of it like mortgage insurance in the U.S.) Apparently, this was the key to the property owner accepting me.
I was really shocked to find and rent a unique and comfortable apartment in my most desirable neighborhood in just a few weeks.
And I can’t wait for you to come make use of the guest room!